Benno Geerdink works in mission-critical environments, where the client’s core processes are paramount, providing tailor-made fire safety solutions that contribute to sustainable and safe building projects.
As a fire safety expert at Deerns, Benno often works in mission-critical environments, where the client’s core processes are paramount ‘Whether it’s a hospital, where patient safety is paramount, or a data centre, where the protection of sensitive equipment is crucial – every client and every building is different,” says Benno. “This requires a specific approach to fire safety.’
Benno’s experience in buildings with pole-opposite functions, from people-centric to tech-centric ones, enable him to develop innovative customised fire safety concepts that are future-oriented.’
Contributing to a safe future
In addition to his work at Deerns, Benno is also a board member of the Dutch Association of Fire Safety Advisors where he contributes to improving fire safety standards and sharing knowledge. ‘I strive to make the Netherlands ever more fire-safe, keeping apace with an ever-changing world and new trends,”‘
Area of tension
An example of this is Benno’s key role in finding fire safety solutions for the revival of using wood in the construction Although popular for its eco-friendly properties, wood also brings fire safety challenges. ‘’The increasing use of wood and also bio-based insulation materials will create an interesting dynamic between architects, fire safety experts and clients in the coming years when it comes to a project’s sustainability and fire safety ambitions.’
Unlike concrete or steel, wood is highly combustible. ‘The requirements and assessment methods of current regulations are still based on non-combustible construction materials,’ he says.
Nevertheless, Benno sees promising opportunities:
" By combining wood with traditional non-combustible materials and innovative protection methods, we can significantly increase fire safety.
